Today’s top stories: Missouri outlines a $700 million broadband expansion reaching 200,000 locations; a new law exempts diapers and hygiene products from state sales tax; St. Louis tornado recovery updates; and a look at Route 66’s centennial plans, haunted Bissell Mansion, and more.

MAIN STORY

Missouri Unveils $700M Broadband Plan

The Missouri Department of Economic Development’s Office of Broadband Development released its final proposal for investing more than $700 million to expand high-speed internet to over 200,000 unserved and underserved homes and businesses. The plan, part of the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, is open for public comment through September 26.

State officials say the proposal will direct more than $450 million to Missouri-based companies and leverage over $400 million in private investments. The plan aims to reach 81% of locations with fiber-based service, all while using less than half of the state’s BEAD funds—a move projected to save nearly $1 billion. Residents can review the plan and submit feedback online.

Following the comment period, Missouri will submit the plan to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration for approval. If approved, construction on funded broadband projects is expected to finish within four years.

AROUND TOWN

Missourians may soon decide whether to overturn a new congressional map favoring Republicans. Richard von Glahn, leading the People NOT Politicians committee, is seeking to collect 110,000 signatures by Dec. 11 to force a referendum on the map, which would delay its implementation pending a statewide vote. Voters will also face Amendment 4, which would raise requirements for constitutional amendments, with campaign debates and funding details expected to be solidified by next year.

The Gin Room on South Grand has transformed St. Louis’s cocktail scene over the past decade. Founded in 2013 by Natasha Bahrami, the bar evolved from a small corner in Café Natasha to a global gin destination, boasting more than 400 gins. The venue is renowned for its education-focused approach, interactive menu, and acclaimed signature cocktails, including the Double Standard Negroni. The Gin Room also founded the national Ginworld festival and recently received James Beard Award recognition in both 2023 and 2025. Culinary innovation continues with chef Justin Newsom’s seasonal, globally inspired menu. Readers are invited to join a free celebration party on September 25, 2025. RSVPs are encouraged, and additional event details can be found here.

A national television show will investigate whether St. Louis’ Bissell Mansion ranks as America’s scariest house. Built more than 200 years ago and known as St. Louis’ oldest surviving residence, the Bissell Mansion has reportedly seen 19 documented deaths within its walls. Show producers plan to explore its haunted reputation during a segment set to air in 2025. To learn more about the mansion’s history and the show’s upcoming visit, see additional details about the Bissell Mansion segment.

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Missouri Makes Diapers, Hygiene Products Tax-Free

Missouri residents are now exempt from paying state and local taxes on diapers, feminine hygiene products, and adult incontinence supplies as a new law takes effect. Shoppers could save $30 to $60 per child annually on diapers and $6 per woman on menstrual products.

The tax cut is projected to reduce state general revenue by more than $200 million, according to officials. Some community leaders, including Columbia’s First Chance for Children, report a surge in diaper need and say the change brings meaningful relief. Read more on family savings estimates.

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Nonprofit Leaders Rebuild After Tornado

St. Louis couple La Tasha and Johnel Langerston Sr. are working to restore their home and Urban Born, their youth literacy nonprofit, after an EF3 tornado on May 16 ripped the roof off their building.

Following the storm, the couple struggled with FEMA applications and limited aid, eventually receiving a $12,000 check after media attention. Like thousands in the region, they await further federal support and possible grant funding to repair their gym and reopen programs. Listen to their whole story on St. Louis on the Air.

QUICK HITS

Route 66 is set to become a national trail as Missouri forms an 18-member commission to plan and sponsor its centennial observance for the Mother Road’s 100th anniversary.

SLU men's basketball began official practice on Sept. 23, 2024, under coach Josh Schertz at Chaifetz Arena, though on-court workouts have continued since June.

St. Augustine Wellston Center has been providing food assistance and community support in the Wellston neighborhood for more than 31 years, now operating a food pantry and thrift store that serve hundreds of families each month.

Lindenwood University cheerleader Maci Mueller returned to the field just days after surviving a near-fatal crash and multiple surgeries, aiming to help her team reach Nationals in Daytona this spring.

Ultimate St. Louis Breakfast will feature six chefs, including Fr. Dominic Garramone and Lia Holter, serving signature breakfast dishes and drinks at Cedars Banquet Hall on Sept. 27, with tickets benefiting St. Louis ArtWorks.